Cybersecurity is the shared responsibility of every employee and business unit. YOU play a key role in properly safeguarding and using private, sensitive information and state resources. The following are actions we all must take to remain vigilant and safe.

BPS CYBERSECURITY: Report Suspicious Cybersecurity Activity By:

• Forwarding suspicious emails to: BPScybersecurity

• Mark as spam or phishing if suspicious:

• Calling IT Help Desk: (716)-816-3510

 1. Secure Passwords:

• Use hard-to-guess passwords with a minimum of 10 characters, including uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters.

• Create an acronym for easy recall, like using the initials of a meaningful phrase.

2. Password Management:

• Use different passwords for various accounts to prevent compromise if one is hacked.

• Keep passwords confidential; do not share or write them down.

3. Protecting Information:

• Avoid leaving sensitive information exposed in the office.

• Use privacy settings on social media and refrain from sharing private details online.

4. Email Security:

• Beware of phishing traps in emails; delete suspicious messages and report them.

• Avoid clicking on links from unknown or untrusted sources.

5. Confidentiality:

• Never disclose confidential information in response to unsolicited calls or emails.

• Destroy unnecessary information properly, both in print and electronic formats.

6. Security Awareness:

• Be cautious about surroundings when handling sensitive information.

• Do not install unauthorized programs on work computers; verify with IT support.

7. Device Security:

• Lock computers and mobile phones when not in use.

• Report lost or stolen devices immediately to the manager and security representative.

8. Network Safety:

• Avoid public Wi-Fi; use agency-provided virtual private network software when necessary.

• Turn off wireless or Bluetooth when not in use and only enable them in secure environments.